Behold the Lamb

Behold the lamb
The lamb which is to be slain

Not twelve days hence bore I
This lamb upon my shoulder
Mud and sweat leaching past my brow
The lamb’s wool matted and bloody

Father did not need bid me seek
I gladly left the ninety and nine
In the safety of the shelt’ring fold
While I went in search of the stray

I pushed through brambles upon the scarp
My feet trod well past the narrow path
I clutched at shrubs to grasp the nape
While my brother drank with whores

And when I returned I cried aloud
Found is the sheep who thrice was lost
I shared my joy with the household slaves
Yea, for the the third time in as many days

And now the stubborn lamb for which I toiled
Shall preparèd be for feasting
A savory meal for the honored guest
My brother returned from his debauch

I have counted the cost of obedience
It is a burden I simply cannot bear

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Lord, what must I do to be saved?

What does the good news say to you?

Love your enemy, and pray for those who persecute you. I have done all these things.

Even the godless man may find it in his heart to forgive a stranger, enemy though he be. What credit is it to you if you do the same?

How then can I be saved?

Forgive your brother, on whom the Father lavishes so much mercy. For the brother you begrudge and despise may be your greatest enemy.